Patients Stories

Seravim Wola Ngara

A BENEFICIARY SPEAKS

         My name is Lydia Podu Pasi. I was born in February 1977 in the outskirts of Kabalidana village, Wanokanoa–Waymangura District, Southwest Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara Province. I belong to an ordinary and simple family as my husband and I are peasants. Our earning often is not enough for our daily basic needs as we have four young children.

         Seravim Wola Ngara is my second child. He is five years old. When I gave birth to him, the whole family was shocked and surprised as we saw that he was born with cleft lip and palate. In our family, we never saw or experienced such a disability as Serafin had. Sadness and worry haunted me, as I closely watched his growth.

           Then, a local doctor consoled and strengthened me as he saw my sadness. He told me that the sickness my son had could be repaired and fixed by medical operation. I was consoled at first, however when I knew about the cost of the operation, I was hopeless. I felt that my family economic situation would not help much for the condition of my son. As a simple family, we could not afford to pay for the needed surgery.  

         I heard about Yayasan Senyum Bali from a local leader in my village as someone (a YSB partner) was visiting and took the data of those with cleft lips and palates. The man then introduced me to YSB, and told me about all the services it offers. I was happy for my son, knowing his life can be changed.

         Now, as my son finished cleft lip and palate surgery in Denpasar, Bali, I feel I am the most grateful mother in the world. My husband and I have nothing, but God provides and moves the hearts of good people to help us. I am truly grateful to YSB which shouldered every single expense—travel, accommodation and the surgery cost.

         I am convinced that when we return to our hometown, my son will feel the same as the rest of the children in our village. No longer will other children bully him now or in future. He can mingle with everyone with confidence and joyfulness, without any inhibition, hesitation or discrimination. I know that from now on, my son’s life has been changed forever. It was possible only because of YSB and their numerous donors. My son and we are ever grateful to YSB. May God bless YSB, its efforts and good work.

(As spoken to Emiliana Saptaningsih)

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GALLERY